Through the green and golden maze out my window
wends the serpentine river of abundant life.
It is not, as I have thought, only sidewalk and street -
but the burgeoning of life itself passing before me.

Floating downstream walk couples hand in hand
while upstream a woman makes her way 
through autumn's wind and spitting rain
against the bubbling currents of chilled air.

Pine needles drop and cherry leaves fall
over all the crows, chickadees, and sparrows
who scrabble about through the sodden ground
while neighbors pack up kids in the car.

Such is the scenery to sustain me
through the dark months of winter.
Comfort, stillness, and healing I will pluck
from this lively river flowing on its endless way.
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Portland, Oregon - November 6, 2022